Largest cities in Kentucky

Access hyperlocal data to help you make a confident and informed decision.

Kentucky, known for its horse racing and rich cultural heritage, is a state with a diverse range of living environments. With a population of approximately 4.5 million, it ranks as the 26th most populated state in the U.S. Kentucky has experienced steady population growth, reflecting its appealing living conditions and economic opportunities. Bordered by Indiana and Ohio to the north, West Virginia to the east, Virginia and Tennessee to the south, and Missouri and Illinois to the west, Kentucky offers a variety of urban and rural living environments across its roughly 420 cities and towns.

Living in Kentucky provides residents with numerous benefits, including a low cost of living, beautiful landscapes, and a rich cultural scene. The state's moderate population density allows for vibrant community life and ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation. Kentucky's economy is diverse, with strengths in agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare. The state's steady population growth supports sustainable development and economic stability. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in Kentucky, is compiled using data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, highlights Kentucky cities by population, showcasing the state's most significant urban centers.

Louisville Population: 639,172 Livability Score: 62

Area Size: 683 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,424 Med. Household Income: $80,657

Louisville, KY, known as 'The Derby City,' offers a unique blend of Southern charm and cultural richness. Located in northern Kentucky, Louisville is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Lexington and Cincinnati enhance its status as a central point in the region. Louisville's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Lexington-Fayette Population: 329,532 Livability Score: 87

Area Size: 735 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,162 Med. Household Income: $87,569

Lexington-Fayette, KY, known as 'The Horse Capital of the World,' offers a unique blend of equestrian heritage and urban amenities. Located in central Kentucky, Lexington-Fayette is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Louisville and Cincinnati enhance its status as a central point in the region. Lexington-Fayette's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Bowling Green Population: 74,252 Livability Score: 65

Area Size: 100 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,918 Med. Household Income: $63,517

Owensboro Population: 62,157 Livability Score: 70

Area Size: 53 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,060 Med. Household Income: $69,353

Covington Population: 41,847 Livability Score: 86

Area Size: 34 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,174 Med. Household Income: $68,856

Richmond Population: 37,087 Livability Score: 69

Area Size: 59 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,622 Med. Household Income: $59,260

Georgetown Population: 35,429 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 43 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,136 Med. Household Income: $99,148

Florence Population: 33,960 Livability Score: 77

Area Size: 28 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,191 Med. Household Income: $89,319

Hopkinsville Population: 31,974 Livability Score: 64

Area Size: 82 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,011 Med. Household Income: $59,958

Nicholasville Population: 31,738 Livability Score: 66

Area Size: 36 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,286 Med. Household Income: $81,952

Full list of the largest cities in Kentucky

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Louisville	639,172	683	$80,657	62
2	Lexington-Fayette	329,532	735	$87,569	87
3	Bowling Green	74,252	100	$63,517	65
4	Owensboro	62,157	53	$69,353	70
5	Covington	41,847	34	$68,856	86
6	Richmond	37,087	59	$59,260	69
7	Georgetown	35,429	43	$99,148	78
8	Florence	33,960	28	$89,319	77
9	Hopkinsville	31,974	82	$59,958	64
10	Nicholasville	31,738	36	$81,952	66
11	Elizabethtown	31,333	71	$69,219	71
12	Henderson	29,267	41	$60,547	73
13	Jeffersontown	29,051	26	$106,032	80
14	Independence	28,909	45	$120,378	71
15	Frankfort	28,807	38	$74,858	74
16	Paducah	25,703	52	$58,279	68
17	Radcliff	23,674	34	$67,072	61
18	Ashland	21,089	28	$62,631	64
19	Murray	19,988	30	$48,279	60
20	Erlanger	19,751	22	$107,188	72
21	Madisonville	19,522	46	$63,123	72
22	Winchester	18,950	23	$65,197	60
23	Burlington	18,755	23	$131,572	76
24	St. Matthews	18,592	11	$101,580	87
25	Danville	17,223	44	$63,627	76
26	Fort Thomas	16,868	15	$122,261	92
27	Shelbyville	16,838	21	$99,928	74
28	Berea	16,202	43	$65,934	74
29	Shively	16,091	12	$62,919	78
30	Newport	15,609	7	$59,691	82
31	Mount Washington	15,040	24	$111,256	69
32	Glasgow	14,955	41	$56,407	76
33	Fort Campbell North	14,915	13	$59,573	61
34	Shepherdsville	14,123	38	$95,912	72
35	Bardstown	13,551	31	$79,417	71
36	Lyndon	11,905	9	$88,518	82
37	Somerset	11,896	29	$41,892	67
38	Lawrenceburg	11,704	16	$74,312	64
39	Campbellsville	11,676	19	$59,563	76
40	Paris	10,056	20	$61,777	67
41	Mayfield	10,031	18	$53,713	64
42	Alexandria	9,927	18	$125,670	83
43	Francisville	9,887	22	$182,420	68
44	Oakbrook	9,837	8	$122,032	71
45	Versailles	9,568	16	$69,047	73
46	Middlesborough	9,518	19	$43,541	56
47	Hillview	9,250	16	$85,835	66
48	Fort Knox	9,207	53	$93,858	68
49	La Grange	9,181	19	$102,712	76
50	Franklin	9,114	37	$68,960	65

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in Kentucky, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

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The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.